safari lodges cape town south africa

Big 5 Safari & Spa

Real africa. real close to cape town.

Join us for an adventurous big 5 safari day trip or overnight experience, just under 2 hours from Cape Town. 

your big 5 safari & spa. just under 2 hours from cape town. real africa. real close to cape town.

Acclaimed for service excellence, renewable energy, social responsibility efforts and conservation programmes, Aquila is more than just an unforgettable wildlife experience , it is an experience in luxurious African hospitality, traditional culinary delights, service excellence and the restoration of pride to the indigenous people and the land.

Choose Your Safari

Experience the big 5 with either our traditional, quadbike or horseback safari adventures., half day trips.

For more information and bookings, choose your preferred Cape Town Safari Day Trip.  All half day safaris include a traditional safari experience, welcome drinks, and meals. Children, age 3 and under, are free of charge with accompanying adult. Children, age 4 to 11, pay 50% of adult rate. Children, age 12 and older, pay full rates.

Early Morning

Full day trips.

All full day safaris include the safari experience and meals. Arrival 09h00am at Aquila Private Game Reserve, and departing at 16h30pm. You may add transport as an optional extra if required to the packages below. 

• Traditional Safari
• Quadbike Safari
• Horseback Safari
• Combo Safari

Overnight Safari

Accommodation includes all meals, one afternoon and morning safari. we are running a winter special for overnight stays from may - october 2024., aquila lodges, choose from our standard, family or premier lodge options., standard lodge, family lodge, premier lodge, aquila cottages, choose from our karoo, family or premier cottage options., karoo cottage, family cottage, premier cottage.

• Latest News

Aquila Collection Unveils Revolutionary Luxury Safari Fly Camp in the Western Cape

Platteland Toe: Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa

Aquila Celebrates 25 Years of Cape Town Safaris

Day trip safaris, half day trips.

• Early Morning Safari
• Afternoon Safari
• Sunset Safari

FULL DAY TRIPS

• Standard transport
• Fly-in options

ACCOMMODATION

• Standard Lodges
• Family Lodges
• Premier Lodges
• Karoo Cottages
• Family Luxury Cottages
• Premier Luxury Cottages

CONTACT DETAILS

• 021 430 7260
• [email protected]
• Donate to ARC
• Reservations
• Transport Options
• Map & Directions

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

• Aquila Children's Policy
• Conditions of Visit
• Terms and Conditions
• Terms and Conditions for Specials
• Privacy Policy

Copyright© Aquila Collection. Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa is part of the Aquila Collection.

• You are here:

Top 5 Best Game Reserves for Safaris Near Cape Town

Heather Richardson is an award-winning travel writer, based in South Africa. She is interested in conservation stories, emerging destinations and adventure travel.

Combining a visit to Cape Town and a safari is easier than you might think, with several game reserves just a short drive from the Mother City. Many of these offer the opportunity to see the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo and leopards. To help you plan your trip, we’ve picked some of the best game reserves for safaris near Cape Town.

Although South Africa’s most famous safari area is the Kruger National Park, to get there from Cape Town requires a 2½ hour flight and sometimes a stop in Johannesburg. For those with less time, these Cape Town safari reserves are ideal.

Safaris From Cape Town

1. Aquila Private Game Reserve

Aquila is a great choice for a Cape Town safari day trip as it’s only a couple of hours outside the city. Safaris run three times a day, allowing plenty of options for those on a brief visit. If you’re very short on time, but not on cash, opt for the fly-in helicopter safari.

Aside from the Big Five, there are 170 bird species on Aquila’s 10,000-hectare reserve and big mammals like giraffes and hippos. Aquila also have an animal rescue centre and Cape leopard research facilities on site.

• Distance from Cape Town: 2 hours
• Accommodation options: Aquila has a 4-star lodge and luxury cottages, both with standard, premier and family rooms.
• Activities: game drives, horseback safaris, quad biking and helicopter fly-in safaris

Aquila Private Game Reserve Tours

2. Inverdoorn Game Reserve

One of the most luxurious places for a Cape Town safari, Inverdoorn is a 10,000-hectare reserve in the Karoo. The reserve’s Iziba Luxury Safari Lodge offers a plush spot to rest your head if a day trip from Cape Town seems too rushed.

You can see the Big Five here, as well as giraffes, hippos and cheetahs. Aside from the wildlife you will spot on a game drive, Inverdoorn is also home to a cheetah rescue and rehabilitation centre.

• Distance from Cape Town: 2½ hours
• Accommodation options: 3-star Iziba Luxury Safari Lodge has a variety of room types from the Guest House to the Ambassador Suite.
• Activities: game drives, cheetah encounters and walking with giraffes

Inverdoorn Game Reserve Tours

3. Garden Route Game Lodge

Another of the best game reserves for safaris near Cape Town, Garden Route also presents the perfect opportunity to drive this stunning coastal route from Cape Town out east.

You will likely spot four out of the Big Five on a game drive through the 3,000-hectare property (lions, rhinos, elephants and buffalo); the Cape leopard is very elusive. Other animals to see include giraffes, cheetahs and various antelopes, or rare bat-eared foxes and caracals.

• Distance from Cape Town: 3½ hours
• Accommodation options: The 3-star lodge has standard rooms, family or luxury suites, and chalets.
• Activities: game drives, birding, a kids’ programme and reptile encounters

Garden Route Game Reserve Tours

4. Gondwana Game Reserve

Gondwana is a little over four hours outside Cape Town, but well worth the journey for the beautiful fynbos scenery alone, which you can learn about on a guided walk. Its flora, as well as the fauna, is what makes Gondwana one of the best game reserves for safaris near Cape Town.

The reserve introduced the first black rhino of recent times to the Western Cape; the rhinos were found in the region up until the late 18th century. All the Big Five are counted at Gondwana, alongside birds that are only found in South Africa – for example, the orange breasted sunbird. The 11,000-hectare reserve is home to lions, endangered Cape mountain zebras, elephants, kudu and springbok.

• Distance from Cape Town: 4 hours
• Accommodation options: There are four options for those staying at Gondwana, including spacious villas for families or groups, and a tented eco camp.
• Activities: game drives, fynbos walks, picnics, hikes, mountain biking and fishing. There’s also a nearby golf course.

Gondwana Game Reserve Tours

5. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Sanbona is another of the best game reserves for safaris near Cape Town. More adventurous travellers can strike out on a walking safari at the Explorer Camp; alternatively, there are three lodges at which to stay. This huge reserve is 58,000 hectares. It’s possible to spot the Big Five and (if you’re lucky) other rare animals, such as aardvarks and caracals.

At Sanbona, you can also see rare white lions and riverine rabbits, the latter of which is only known to inhabit the central Karoo. And it’s not just flora and fauna: the San and Khoi-Khoi rock art found here dates back over 3,500 years.

• Accommodation options: There are three lodges and a campsite, including the eco-friendly Dwyka Tented Lodge and the family-friendly Gondwana Lodge.
• Activities: game drives, walking safaris, boat safaris, rock-art tours, hiking, birding and kids’ programmes

Want To Go on a Safari Near Cape Town?

Click on the button below to compare South Africa safaris that start from Cape Town offered by top rated tour operators.

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 103,646 reviews and 223 destination guides. More About Us

South Africa

• Country Overview
• Parks & Reserves
• Popular Routes
• Tour Operators

South Africa Safaris

4-Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

$973 pp (USD)

13-Day South Africa Self Drive Honeymoon

$4,500 to $6,103 pp (USD)

6-Day Unique Rhino and Lion Conservation Experience

$6,586 pp (USD)

South Africa Safaris by Type

• Budget Safaris
• Luxury Safaris
• Self-drive Safaris
• Family Safaris
• Camping Safaris
• Private Safaris
• Group Safaris
• Fly-in Safaris
• 7-Day Safaris
• 10-Day Safaris
• 14-Day Safaris

Best Time To Visit South Africa

Parks & reserves south africa.

Kruger National Park

MalaMala Private Game Reserve

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve

Photo gallery south africa.

Map of South Africa

Most Popular Blog Posts

• Best Time for African Safari
• Best Safari in South Africa
• Family Safari in South Africa
• African Safari Tips
• Game Reserves Near Cape Town
• What to Pack for a Safari
• Best African Safari Parks
• Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
• Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
• Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
• Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

Safari tours to south africa.

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  260 Reviews

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Winelands (Highlight) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Garden Route, Kwandwe GR, Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport (Port Elizabeth) , Port Elizabeth (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kapama GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

Big 5 Private Game Reserve

Located in the karoo, just under 2.5 hours from cape town.

Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve

Inverdoorn Big 5 Private Game Reserve is just under 2.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town, in the malaria-free Ceres Karoo. The reserve is also home to a successful cheetah conservation project and has made a significant contribution to sustaining the biodiversity of the region.

The 10 000 hectare private game reserve offers luxurious Big 5 safaris for overnight guests. All members of the Big 5 – the elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo and the elusive leopard – are represented at Inverdoorn. The wildlife is thriving and during your safari you may come across herds of eland, gemsbok and zebra, or hippos wallowing in the dam. The rhinos are a distinct highlight at Inverdoorn.

In 2012 Inverdoorn became a luxury Big five safari destination, after the introduction of elephants onto the reserve, accompanying the lion, rhino, African buffalo and the elusive leopard. The cheetah rescue and rehabilitation centre was founded in 2001 and is home to a great number cheetah.

Together with a profusion of wildlife which includes zebras, hippos, giraffes, wildebeest and springbok, our guests are sure to have an unforgettable safari experience.

under the Karoo stars

Seeing the warmth rise off a herd of buffalo, silhouetted in the glow of a bright Karoo sunrise, or a stealthy cheetah enjoying an early-evening run, is but a small part of the safari experience you can expect from an overnight stay (or more) at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve.

Ideal for a romantic couples safari stay! The Suite is the jewel in the crown of Inverdoorn and is a free-standing unit with its own private rooftop terrace. No expense was spared on the interior with a truly magnificent king size bed as the focal point.

Each room is uniquely decorated and makes you feel welcome in the ceres Karoo with wide open windows overlooking the private pool and vast expanse of the reserve. Your safari consultant will advise on the room options based on your requirements.

Please note that all lodge rooms have a unique and exciting layout that varies in configuration. Ideal for families / groups of travellers, and also located close to the communal pool.

The Tankwa chalets can sleep up to two people and can accommodate singles sharing. They are all shower en-suite and hosts a beautiful veranda overlooking the succulent garden.

free-roaming wild life

In 2012 Inverdoorn became a luxury Big five safari destination, after the introduction of elephants onto the reserve, accompanying the lion, rhino, African buffalo, and the elusive leopard. The Cheetah Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre was founded in 2001 and is home to a great number of cheetahs. Together with a profusion of wildlife which includes zebras, hippos, giraffes, wildebeest, and springbok, guests are sure to have an unforgettable safari experience.

conservation

Our vision is to play a key role in global cheetah conservation to ensure the survival and sustainability of the species in the wild.

The Inverdoorn Cheetah Conservation programme is based at the Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve – two and a half hours drive from Cape Town. The project was founded in 2001 and have since become a core function within Inverdoorn’s Big 5 safari tourism operation – allowing guest interaction with the animals throughout the safari experience.

Inverdoorn is an upmarket Big 5 safari reserve in the Tankwa Karoo – near Sutherland. The lodge sits on a the vast expanse of 10 000 hectare flat Karoo veld. The reserve has built a solid tourism reputation locally and internally and the original cheetah rehabilitation programme has become synonymous with its business model.

The programme was originally positioned to rehabilitate and connect with cheetahs. Since inception, the programme released seven cheetahs – two of which have been released onto the main Inverdoorn game reserve. Their independent living unfortunately made them kill considerable amounts of wildlife indiscriminately. These individuals died at Inverdoorn due to old age.

Since August 2018, The Aquila Collection has taken over the ownership of Inverdoorn Private game Reserve with very little background information on the programme, together with little facts of the success of these cheetahs. Searl Derman, owner of The Aquila Collection – immediately announced an investigation into the programme – together with NO animal interaction policy updates, effective immediately.

At Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve we pride ourselves on personalised service – and as part of our guest orientated safari experience, we have introduced luxurious in-room spa treatments. 

This service will allow guests to add a self-indulgent spa treatment to their Inverdoorn stay – in the comfort of their room – taking the concept of room service to superior levels.

Whether you seek the soothing relaxation of a massage following a busy day of wildlife experiences; indulgent pampering to celebrate a special occasion; or want to reduce stress – our in-room treatments will definitely add a special touch to your safari stay.

Appointments and treatment schedules must please be arranged during check-in at the lodge.

Copyright© Aquila Collection. Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve is part of the Aquila Collection.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Places to Visit

Driving in South Africa

Safety in South Africa

How to Spend 10 Days in South Africa

Foods to Try in South Africa

Drinks to Try in South Africa

Best Restaurants in Johannesburg

Best Restaurants in Cape Town

Things to Do in South Africa

Things to Do With Kids

Best Beaches

Best Surfing

Best Dive Destinations

Best Golf Resorts

Kruger National Park

48 Hours in Johannesburg

Things to Do

Apartheid Museum

Airport Guide

Table Mountain

Game Reserves Near Cape Town

Top Five Game Reserves for Safaris Near Cape Town

Cape Town is known around the world for its stunning scenery, world-class restaurants, and fascinating cultural landmarks (including Robben Island and Bo-Kaap ). However, what many visitors don't know is that the city is also a convenient base for exploring some of the finest game reserves in the Western Cape. If you don't have time to head north to major South African reserves like Kruger or Mkhuze , don't worry; you can also look for safari animals in Cape Town's backyard. All of the reserves listed in this article are within a few hours' drive of the Mother City. They're also malaria -free.

Note: Driving times given below are based on departure from central Cape Town near the V&A Waterfront and may be considerably shorter or longer if you're staying in the suburbs. For the quickest travel times, make sure to plan your journey around off-peak traffic hours.

Buffelsfontein Game Reserve

Although safari purists may balk at the idea of a reserve that keeps its carnivores in separate enclosures, Buffelsfontein Game Reserve is nevertheless the most convenient option for those with limited time to spare. As a 1,600-hectare converted cattle ranch, the park is just over an hour's drive from central Cape Town and is home to four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, and white rhino). Guests will also have the opportunity to spot cheetah , giraffe, zebra, and several iconic antelope species on a half or full guided game drive.

The half drive lasts for 1.5 hours, while the full drive takes around three hours and departs at 9 a.m. or 2 p.m. If you book an afternoon full drive on any day except Sunday, you'll also get to see the park's carnivores being fed. For a totally different safari experience, consider booking a mountain bike safari instead. If you do have time to extend your stay, there are a variety of accommodation options, from bush camps and self-catering chalets for budget travelers to more luxurious four-sleeper cottages. There's a restaurant, swimming pool, and bar on-site.

Aquila Private Game Reserve

​Located a two-hour drive northeast of Cape Town, Aquila Private Game Reserve  is a 4-star park offering half-day, full-day, and overnight safari options. The 10,000-hectare conservancy is home to the Big Five including rhino, elephant, lion, leopard, and buffalo. All five of these species have been reintroduced to the Western Cape after being driven to the brink of extinction by the big game hunters of the past. The park is also home to the Aquila Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre , which provides a sanctuary for rescued safari animals that are no longer able to survive in the wild.

If the idea of a traditional safari vehicle is a little too tame, consider booking a horse-ride or quad bike safari instead. Although the park is close enough for a day trip from Cape Town, overnight accommodations include a luxury lodge and several exquisite chalets. The chalets offer indoor fireplaces and outdoor showers, allowing you to fully appreciate the magic of life in the bush. Other useful amenities include a bar, a restaurant, an infinity pool, and a spa. Aquila also offers transfers from Cape Town hotels via mini-bus, private vehicle, airplane, or helicopter.

Inverdoorn Game Reserve

Half an hour beyond Aquila Private Game Reserve lies  Inverdoorn Game Reserve , another 10,000-hectare protected area in the Klein Karoo. Inverdoorn achieved Big Five status in 2012 with the introduction of a herd of elephants. It is also home to non-profit organization Western Cape Cheetah Conservation and visitors are given the opportunity to see these magnificent predators up close. Since 2018, the reserve has implemented a strict no-touch policy in accordance with the latest ethical conservation practices.

The park also offers a choice of 4- and 5-star accommodation options. There's a tented camp and a series of well-appointed chalets, while the multiple-room guest houses are perfect for families or friends traveling together. For the last word in luxury, opt for a night in the exquisite Ambassador Suite. Overnight guests are invited to join a walking safari at sunrise, when the animals of the reserve are at their most active. The route to Inverdoorn takes you through the Cape Winelands ; consider stopping for a tasting along the way.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve 

From Cape Town, you can drive to Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in approximately three hours. Nestled at the foot of the Warmwaterberg Mountains, the reserve is a Klein Karoo paradise known for its indigenous wildlife and ancient rock art . Measuring some 54,000 hectares, it is also made special by its vast, sprawling landscapes. You'll find the Big Five here, as well as cheetah and smaller native mammals including the rare riverine rabbit. The wide range of activities on offer include birdwatching, nature walks, rock art tours, and stargazing. Boat safaris on Bellair Dam offer a different game-viewing perspective. 

Since game drives take place at sunrise and sunset, most visitors to Sanbona Wildlife Reserve opt to stay overnight. There are three luxury lodges to choose from, including a tented camp with spa baths, private decks, and a fine-dining restaurant. If you want to experience Africa at its most authentic, consider a walking safari with a stay at the back-to-basics Explorer Camp. A kids' program , childminding services, and a dedicated family lodge make this the ideal choice for those traveling with children. 

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

When you've ticked the Big Five off your bucket-list, consider taking a two-hour drive southeast of Cape Town to coastal  Grootbos Private Nature Reserve . Located at the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, the reserve is the ultimate destination for spotting the Marine Big Five: namely, great white sharks, southern right whales, bottlenose dolphins, African penguins, and Cape fur seals. The lodge offers coastal safaris in association with Dyer Island Cruises . Cage diving with great white sharks , whale-watching tours, horse-riding, nature walks, and botanical safaris are also offered. 

The reserve, which measures 2,500 hectares, is home to almost 800 different plant species; 100 of which are endangered and six of which were discovered for the first time on site. Its protected milkwood forests are over 1,000 years old. In order to have enough time to explore its wonders, you can stay overnight either at the Garden Lodge, the Forest Lodge, or in a private luxury villa. Each eco-friendly option is designed to complement the reserve's incredible natural beauty. Amenities range from tranquil swimming pools to organic 5-star dining. 

The Top 5 Places to See Leopards in Africa

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Botswana

Malaria Free Safaris in Africa

20 Best Things to Do in South Africa

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: The Complete Guide

18 Best Places to Visit in South Africa

10 of the Best Private Game Reserves in South Africa

Kruger National Park: The Complete Guide

The Top 18 Things to Do in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province

The Top 18 Things to Do in the Western Cape, South Africa

Addo Elephant National Park: The Complete Guide

The Best Places to Go in Southern Africa

The Top 10 Things to Do in Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Amboseli National Park: The Complete Guide

Where to Go in 2021: 10 Future Trips You Can Start Planning Now

12 Best Things to Do in Kenya

• Safari Lodges
• Safari Specials
• Get Directions

Luxury Inspired by Nature

A stay at Shamwari Private Game Reserve is one that will remain with you forever. Due to its location in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the reserve offers abundant wildlife, fauna and flora exclusive to the area and unforgettable encounters with nature.

Family Relaxation

Ultimate tented luxury

Long Lee Manor

Gracious Living

Sarili Private Lodge

Exclusive Use

EAGLES CRAG

Secluded luxury

Adventure on foot

Contemporary tented living

Private Villa

Kids on Safari

Game Drives

Teens on Safari

EXPLORER CAMP

Sustainable Conservation

Our experiences.

Enhance your stay by partaking in the range of experiences offered at our reserve, underpinned by our philosophy of respect to nature and each other.

Explorer Camp

Conservation Philosophy

Staying at Shamwari means you are participating in and experiencing an immensely successful conservation project, which returned the land to the rich biodiversity for which the region was once renowned.

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience to empower, engage and educate yourself with our conservation efforts in conserving a vanishing way of life by visiting one of our awareness centres.

Wildlife Rehab Centre

The wildlife centre assists in the rescue, rehabilitation and care of sick, injured abandoned or orphaned wildlife under the care of a team of veterinary specialists.

Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries

In collaboration with the internationally-acclaimed Born Free Foundation, the Big Cat Sanctuaries are dedicated to the plight of wild cats.

Conservation Story

During the past 25 years, the land was consolidated and rehabilitated in an attempt to restore it to its former glory.

TESTIMONIALS

We had the most awesome Magic Moment with a herd of elephants sighting! Our guide, Simon stopped the vehicle some distance from them. They made their way towards us in the beautiful evening light! It was magical! Then one of the youngest teenagers came up to us, had a good look at us , and then hurried off to her mother!

I rate it as the best elephant sightings we have ever had! Ever!

Thank you Shamwari!

What a Maaagic Moment it was to see a mother white rhino with her beautiful calf! We could see the care she had! Thank you Shamwari for conserving moments like this for us!

Kindly, Andrew

My fascination with Shamwari began in the mid 1990’s when I watched the TV programme on the Conservation work they were doing. My deepest longing was to visit the Reserve for myself and that came to be when we were on holiday in the Eastern Cape and radio Algoa advertised that there was a special on. We booked a night’s stay on our way back home and my heart was captured. Fast forward to 2020 which was a significant year as my 70 th birthday was in the October.

We were always going to remember the year because of the hard lock- down as a result of the Covid-19 virus, but how could we celebrate in an unforgettable way when there were still so many restrictions? Then I heard that Shamwari was opening up Long Lee Manor for the first time since lock-down, so I booked for my immediate family – 11 in all.

I knew I had done the right thing by the reaction of my teenage Granddaughters who squealed with delight as we walked through reception to the view of a sparkling rim pool expanding onto a plain teaming with animals. A truly ʺout of Africa” scene. For the first evening Game drive I chose to go on the vehicle with my 5 Grandchildren. Frans was our Ranger and he was incredibly knowledgeable and patient with all our questions. A huge Leopard tortoise resting in the road in front of us was gently repositioned by my grandson under strict instructions from Frans.

Sunrise in itself is a magical moment, but when you get to experience it lighting up the beautiful Long Lee Manor and landscape of Shamwari it becomes even more magical

Greetings Shamwari Game Reserve,

It was a magic moment of excitement to be on our first game drive! Waiting to see what is around the next corner! Listening to the birds and smelling the flowers in Spring!

We would LOVE to go back!

Thinking back on Shamwari, it provokes feelings of nostalgia. South Africa is a wonderful country with diverse wildlife and beauty in all its landscapes.

Visiting Shamwari makes one realize how blessed we are to be so close to nature and experience the beauty of wildlife.

Upon a morning game drive, wrapped in blankets shying away from the cold we saw the most amazing sighting of cheetahs in the mist. Cheetahs playing and chasing each other, giving us enough time to take memorable pictures. The most wonderful sighting making the cold and misty morning all worth it.

A quote I love living by especially when visiting Shamwari is : “Expect nothing, appreciate everything”. Every moment in the bush is truly a magical moment.

We had the pleasure of going on safari in Shamwari August 20 to 23, 2016.  It was the highlight of our trip to South Africa, which also included several days in Capetown. Our intrepid guide/driver at Shamwari was Jacques:  tall, dark, handsome, charming, and most importantly knowledgeable.

On our first full day, August 21, we had two safari drives, one in the morning and a second one in the afternoon.  The afternoon drive had two goals:  to see lions and elephants.  We were able to see the northern lion pride, which included five lionesses and two cubs.  When we first spotted them, they were all resting in the shade.  Eventually, they all got up and left, probably to go hunting, according to Jacques.

There were two elephant sightings.  The first one involved elephant foreplay, with both male and female urinating to test the waters—not quite ready yet.

As if this were not exciting enough, the second elephant sighting is forever seared into my brain.  We were sitting in the Toyota Land Cruiser when an elephant began circling around our vehicle.  It was so close that I could have reached out to touch it!  As it was, I was so petrified that I could not move for fear of disturbing it and so did not have time to whip out my cell phone to take a quick picture.  But details that I remember so vividly include:  long elephant eyelashes framing intelligent eyes and rough, wrinkly grey skin, as portrayed in one of my favorite childhood Golden Books, The Saggy Baggy Elephant.  It was the experience of a lifetime to be so near a magnificent wild creature!  Thank you, Jacques, thank you, Shamwari!

We visited Shamwari Long Lee Manor from the 01/12/2020 – 03/12/2020.

It was during the re-opening phase after Covid-19.

The strict Covid protocols were welcomed during those uncertain times.

It was a surreal experience as we were the only guests during our stay….just the two of us. Having said that we had an experience of a life time. We were treated like roality by all.

The photos of this luxurious experience, the game drives, the setting and level of sophistication of the lodge and accommodation speaks for themselves.

Up Close and Personal Encounters with Nature

IMAGE GALLERY

Shamwari Private Game Reserve is home to vast herds of wildlife, birdlife and incredible ecological diversity.

The game reserve comprises of seven individual 5-star lodges, an Explorer Camp and three different education and rehabilitation facilities. We are passionate about conserving a vanishing way of life and aim to translate this through the ethos of our conservation principles.

Thank You for Signing Up to Our Newsletter

Subscribe to our shamwari newsletter, subscribe to our trade newsletter.

Accommodation

Experiences.

• Conservation
• Destination

Dwyka Tented Lodge

Gondwana Family Lodge

Tilney Manor

Make a direct booking.

Book your stay directly with Sanbona Wildlife Reserve for the best rates.

Guest Enquiry

Not ready to make a booking just yet? Submit a travel enquiry and our team will be in touch.

Fall asleep in a place like no other

Our luxury accommodation options.

Set in a horseshoe bend of a dry Karoo ravine, the eco-friendly Dwyka Tented Lodge is concealed by rock formations, offering the epitome of secluded luxury and romance.

From R8 480 per adult per night sharing

A thatched Karoo homestead, Gondwana Family Lodge overlooks the Bellair Dam and was built with family fun and relaxation in mind. Children of all ages are welcome, and our exciting Kids on Safari programme will surely keep your kids entertained all holiday long!

From R7 535 per adult per night sharing

The historical Tilney Manor offers privacy, tranquillity and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and plains. A lush oasis awaits within its carefully laid out indigenous gardens.

During our honeymoon in South Africa, our experience at Sanbona (we stayed at the Dwyka Lodge) was definitely the highlight. This was our first safari experience, and it definitely did not disappoint. Our guide, Thomas, was incredibly knowledgable and friendly. We saw some truly incredible things, from a family of elephants being mere feet away from our vehicle, to a cheetah right after a kill. Our lodgings were also magnificent (the hot tub and outdoor shower were a great plus!), and everyone on the staff was so kind and lovely. We can’t wait to go back!

Explore our three luxury lodges and our adventurous Explorer Camp.

To make the most out of your holiday adventure, there are several safari activities available.

View our available offers, designed to make your holiday that much more special.

Stay 4, Pay 3 Offer

Receive one night on a complimentary basis when booking 4 consecutive nights at any of our luxury lodges. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is packed with opportunities to learn, love and explore nature around you while residing in ultimate comfort.

• Cape Town Tours
• Safaris in South Africa

Best Safaris Near Cape Town

• 19.38K views
• ~ mins read

Safaris are one of the biggest draws of tours in South Africa . If you are staying in the vibrant city of Cape Town, you might be far away from some of the main wildlife reserves like Kruger National Park, but it doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on safari experiences. During your trip to Cape Town , within a short drive, you can find a wide range of private game reserves, like Aquila Games Reserve and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. The Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and African buffalos) are the creme de la creme of the South African safari world, and you can encounter these amazing animals in a conservation setting. So, with that in mind, let’s dive in and discover the seven best safaris near Cape Town.

• Mark Bromley

1. Aquila Private Game Reserve

Photo Credit: Aquila Private Game Reserve

This 10,000-hectare reserve is known for its conservation efforts and excellent customer service. Aquila holds nothing back when it comes to its guests. There are three, half-day safaris available every day — early morning, afternoon, sunset, and options for full day tours and overnight packages. Sightings of the Big 5 are possible here, along with giraffes, hippos, antelope, and 170 bird species. Aquila’s main goal is to preserve and protect African wildlife. They have an on-site animal rescue center as well as leopard research facilities. 

• Distance from Cape Town : 2 hours (176km) northeast of Cape Town in the historic town of Touws River. This is a great option for those looking for a day trip only.
• Accommodation available: 4-star lodge offers standard rooms, family suites, and luxury cottages that include their very own fireplace. A restaurant, spa, infinity pool, wet bar, cigar lounge, and children’s entertainment center are also included.
• Other activities: Horseback safari, quad bike safari, fly-in safari (arrive at the reserve via helicopter!)

2. Garden Route Game Lodge

Photo Credit: Garden Route Game Lodge

This reserve offers two safari tours daily, each lasting roughly 2–3 hours. One departs in the early morning and the other in the late afternoon since these are the times the animals are the most active. On the tour, you are likely to spot four out of the Big 5; lions, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos. You can also see giraffes, zebras, various antelope species, and free-roaming cheetahs. Overnight guests are offered sunrise and sunset safaris along with a tour of the reptile center, which houses 28 different snake species, Nile crocodiles, and tortoises.

• Distance from Cape Town: 3 hours 40 minutes (350km) east of Cape Town in the village of Albertinia. It is possible to do it as a day trip from Cape Town, but staying the night is probably more comfortable.
• Accommodation available: Room options in the 3-star lodge range from standard rooms to family and luxury suites to honeymoon chalets. A full restaurant with terrace dining is on site.
• Other activities: Families traveling with kids will love the 'Kids on Safari' option, which allows children to explore and learn about the reserve under the guidance and supervision of a field ranger. Bird fanatics will enjoy watching over 50 species of rare and native birds throughout the reserve. There is also a spa and pool at the lodge that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day of safari. 

3. Inverdoorn Game Reserve

Photo Credit: Inverdoorn Game Reserve

As a self-proclaimed “luxury” safari, Inverdoorn may not be the cheapest on the list, but it’s certainly one of the most catered and comfortable. The reserve sits on 10,000 hectares in the arid Klein Karoo region. The grounds teem with birds and wildlife, including the Big 5, giraffes, zebras, hippos, impalas, springboks, and more. Inversdoorn is one of the most popular safaris near Cape Town due to the high level of service provided by the staff and its proximity to the city.

Inverdoorn goes to great lengths to protect and preserve the animals that call their reserve home. RhinoProtect, a pricey security and research program specifically designed for the reserve’s resident rhinos, goes above and beyond to keep the animals safe from poachers. The Cheetah Sanctuary is another highlight. Visitors can view the fastest animals on earth partaking in running exercises that ready them for their release into their natural environment on the reserve.  

• Distance from Cape Town: 2 hours 30 minutes (200km) northeast of Cape Town in Breede River.
• Accommodation available: The 3-star Izibi Safari Lodge has stylish guest houses, up-scale chalets, and posh suites. Relaxation is the name of the game here, and it features first-class culinary dining and poolside lounging.
• Other activities: 2-day one-night safaris, private safaris, sunrise/sunset safaris, walk with giraffes, cheetah encounters, cheetah runs.

4. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Photo Credit: Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Sanbona is the biggest reserve on the list, with 58,000 sprawling hectares. Situated at the foot of the Warmwaterberg Mountains, the impressive landscape and some unique and rare wildlife are what sets Sanbona apart from the others. Another unique selling point is the ancient rock art that can be viewed in the reserve. Dating back 3,500 years, the fascinating drawings depict the rituals and spiritual beliefs of the ancient tribes, the San and the Khoi-Khoi.

Safaris take place at sunrise and sunset and last for roughly 3 hours. Visitors can experience multiple landscapes and habitats as well as the chance to see the Big 5, iconic white lions, cheetahs, and rare riverine rabbits. Sanbona also offers boat safaris, creating a new and innovative way to tour the reserve.

• Distance from Cape Town: 3 hours 15 minutes (256km) east of Cape Town in the town of Montagu. The establishment doesn't entertain day trips due to the sheer size of the reserve. Hence, spending the night is mandatory.
• Accommodation available: Environmentally-friendly 5-star accommodation in the form of luxury tented lodges with private spa baths. Or book an entire manor complete with a private bar, pool, and bathrooms.
• Other activities: Birdwatching, walking and hiking trails, rock art tours, and one of the best stargazing in South Africa. For those traveling with children, there’s a kids program that caters to little ones’ interests while educating them on the importance of conservation.

5. Fairy Glen Private Game Reserve

Claiming to be the closest Big 5 safari to Cape Town, this reserve does a lot of business with day-tripping tourists. While it’s true the Big 5 do call this reserve home, even the reserve admits that spotting a leopard is a rare occurrence. Located at the foot of the Brandwacht Mountains, surrounded by vegetation, fauna, and flora, Fairy Glen is rugged, natural, and full of wildlife. You will feel days away from the big city even though the reserve is roughly an hour away from Cape Town.

This game reserve in the Western Cape offers half-day safaris (with or without transportation from Cape Town) as well as overnight safari options. The tours can be conducted by vehicle or on horseback. A nature walk to the Brandwacht Dam is included in the overnight safaris, and there is a chance to see 250 bird species. 

• Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour 20 minutes (113km) from Cape Town in the town of Worchester. This is the closest day-trip option on our list.
• Accommodation available: Overnight safari guests have the option to stay in either the standard or luxury chalets. Bar and Braai (BBQ) facilities and an outdoor pool are included with the accommodation.
• Other activities: Hiking trails.

6. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

This 2,500-hectare private nature reserve is an award-winning eco-tourism destination near Cape Town in South Africa. Overlooking the pristine beaches of Walker Bay, this reserve has 118 species of birds and 29 mammal species as well as ancient forests that are home to rare and endangered plants. The reserve is especially known for its marine safaris during which you can spot whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins. The Grootbos Foundation is dedicated to conserving the local wilderness and has pioneered sustainability initiatives in the region.

• Distance from Cape Town: 2 hours (160km). 13km past Stanford on the R43.
• Accommodation options: Two lodges have private suites with private decks, fireplaces and outdoor showers. You can opt to stay in a private luxury villa as well. 
• Other activities: Marine safaris, birdwatching, hiking trails, horseback riding, whale watching and botanical tours. 

7. Buffelsfontein Game Reserve

Buffelsfontein, a former cattle ranch, reopened in 2002 as a 1,600-hectare game reserve. Buffelsfontein is home to four of the Big 5: lions, buffaloes, white rhinos and giraffes. Travelers can also see cheetahs, zebras, kudus, elands and oryxes in the reserve. Game drives take place twice a day and must be booked in advance. Travelers can go for either a three-hour game drive or one that lasts for 90 minutes. Overnight accommodation is available in bush camps, chalets and a guesthouse. The reserve also has a restaurant and a bar.

• Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour (80km)
• Accommodation Options:  A wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from bush camps and basic chalets to luxury cottages and guesthouse rooms, are available for travelers. 
• Other activities:  Bike tours and bush camping

Before deciding on which safari near Cape Town to embark upon, consider your priorities. If you’re traveling with children, there are a few reserves that are more family-friendly than others. If traveling in comfort is a must, there are luxury options overflowing with South African hospitality. Or if it’s all about which animals you’re going to see, be it the Big 5 or a rare encounter with the White lion, there are safaris near Cape Town that can practically guarantee that you will spot these. Whichever safari you choose, we doubt you’ll be disappointed!

When you are done with your Cape Town safari, you might want to try other activities available in and around the city. We highly recommend taking on one of the many hiking trails in Cape Town or pursuing the famous road trip –  The Garden Route . 

You can gather helpful tips from our travel guide on how long to spend in South Africa . Feel free to get in touch with our travel experts for a customized tour of South Africa .

For a seasonal overview, see our article on the best time to visit South Africa .

Related Categories

• South Africa Travel Guide
• Hikes And Treks In South Africa
• How Long To Stay In South Africa
• Safaris In South Africa
• South Africa Travel Advice
• Top South Africa Attractions
• What To Do In South Africa
• When To Visit South Africa
• Where To Go In South Africa
• Previous Post

Popular Destinations

• Europe Tours
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Italy Tours
• Spain Tours
• Argentina Tours
• Canada Tours
• Sri Lanka Tours
• Chile Tours
• Antarctica Tours

We Live for the Wildlife!

Travel with us and experience our world

NEED HELP? REQUEST AGENT 

Request Agent

Need assistance? Our team is here to help you plan

Welcome to our exclusive portfolio of handpicked luxury safari lodges, experiences and curated itineraries. With undoubtably the most dedicated team of industry experts, Safaris Down South offers a heart-warming African experience of a lifetime for our visitors from all over the globe.

South Africa

Special Offers SA Resident deals Cape Town packages Kruger National Park Sabi Sands All Safari Destinations

Discover Our World

Kruger National Park

Eastern Cape

KwaZulu Natal

Cape Town & Safari

Victoria Falls

Understated Luxury in the Wild

Popular Safari Lodges

Pumba – Msenge Bush Lodge

• From : £  287 /night

Savanna – Main Lodge

• From : £  630 /night

Dulini – Main Lodge

• From : £  948 /night

Phinda Rock Lodge

• From : £  785 /night

Kwandwe – Ecca Lodge

• From : £  571 /night

Shamwari – Long Lee Manor

• From : £  427 /night

Kapama – Kapama Southern Camp

• From : £  382 /night

Thanda – Safari Lodge

• From : £  367 /night

Ulusaba – Rock Lodge

• From : £  586 /night

Thornybush – Saseka Tented Camp

• From : £  827 /night

“…… when we arrived at Boulders it was like in a dream…all is made for the travelers to feel welcome; the service is impeccable, the atmosphere is just heaven and to location…what a location! “

‘ ….. each tent with its own private pool and sun deck overlooking the river and plains teeming with game, simply took our breath away. “, ‘ ….. it was five of the most memorable days of our lives. i could not recommend londolozi highly enough to anyone considering an african safari holiday, ‘ ….. it is hard to describe how amazing our time at leopard hills was every single person we interacted with on the property was outstanding, featured safari packages.

14 Nights Sabi Sands, Cape Town & Winelands

14 Nights / 15 Days

From £  5,516 to £  7,637 per person

Includes internal flights, transfers, accommodation…

MalaMala has stood the test of time and delivers a high standard safari experience. In Cape Town your hotel is located in the V&A waterfront and then it’s time to unwind at Babylonstoren wine estate…

7 Nights Kruger National Park & Sabi Sands

7 Nights / 8 Days

From £  6,322 to £  6,577 per person

Stay at the exquisite Saseka Tented Camp in the Kruger National Park and Sabi Sabi’s signature Earth Lodge in the Sabi Sands. This is an ultra-luxurious experience with exceptional Big-5 game drives…

9 Nights Eastern Cape Game Reserve & Cape Town

9 Nights / 10 Days

From £  5,041 to £  7,073 per person

With high standard game drives and luxury accommodation, Kwandwe Ecca Lodge is known for the most superior safari in the Eastern Cape. Stay in Cape Town’s most prestigious boutique hotel…

Travel with us & Experience our World

News & Articles

Best time to go.

Kids on safari

Honeymoon Safaris

Read our blog

Get in touch

Ready to start planning? Contact Us!

• Loyalty Program

Come and share the breathtaking beauty this 4,500 hectare reserve has to offer on South Africa’s scenic Garden Route. Botlierskop Game Reserve will ensure you enjoy a uniquely South African Safari Experience. Family owned and privately operated, Botlierskop is malaria free and home to free roaming wildlife including lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, cheetah, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, hippo and more.

Experience our range of luxury accommodation: Tented Lodge, self-catering Bush Villas, Village Lodge built with children in mind or a memorable day visitor experience.

All this and a very warm welcome awaits you!

Tented Lodge

Luxurious tented suites, offering splendid views out over the river and mountains beyond, it is the perfect romantic safari escape!

Village Lodge

A child friendly safari getaway with a variety of children’s activities and luxury accommodation. It is the perfect country escape for the whole family!

Bush Villas

The self-catering Bush Villas overlook a waterhole with breathtaking views for the ultimate relaxation. Experience where luxury, privacy and wildlife meet.

Day Visitors 

For those with limited time, it makes for the perfect day trip. Enjoy a range of activities, meals and a leisure area with swimming pool and kids playground.

Explore our experiences & Activities

Conservation.

We only have one planet. Thank you for choosing to make a difference when staying at Botlierskop Game Reserve.

Removal of exotic alien plant species on the reserve.

Spekboom is vital in removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere therefore you’ll find it planted all over Botlierskop Game Reserve.

We believe in Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and practices it daily at all our Lodges.

All cleaning products and guest amenities used at Botlierskop Game Reserve are eco-friendly and 100% natural ingredients.

Botlierskop Tented Lodge already runs 100% on solar power on a sunny day.

We buy local to reduce the impact on the environment and benefit the community.

Latest Blog Posts

New Life for Cheetah Cubs at Botlierskop

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that the female cheetah, Catja, wilded and released through Ashia Cheetah Conservation, gave birth to 3 beautiful and healthy cubs at the end of July here on Botlierskop Game Reserve. She kept them mostly hidden in the den for...

Free Roaming Cheetahs at Botlierskop

Botlierskop Game Reserve is giving you an exciting opportunity to spot two free roaming cheetahs during a game drive or horseback safari. During the drive, you will hear the beautiful story about how Ashia Cheetah Conservation gave these cheetahs a second chance to live a...

Introducing our Executive Suites

Introducing our Western Cape Tented Safari Executive Suites at Botlierskop Game Reserve. These canvas tents offer luxury safari accommodation with a jacuzzi.

BOTLIERSKOP DAY SAFARI – Tailored especially for Day Visitors

Conveniently situated midway between George and Mossel Bay along the Garden Route, Botlierskop Game Reserve lends itself to day visitors as seamlessly as to overnight guests. Why not make it a day out to remember - with your family or a group of friends or colleagues - and experience the fun and enjoyment our extensive facilities have in store for you?

Guided Game Drives

A real Garden Route Safari experience! Enjoy close encounters with Rhinoceros, Lions, Elephants, Buffalo, Giraffe, the rare Black Impala, Golden Wildebeest, Mountain Zebra, Hippos and more! Our Private Game Reserve is 4200ha and comprises of over 26 different species of animals and over 200 resident...

Western Cape Glamping Experience In South Africa

21st century travel is characterised by trends and dynamics that attract the traveller to experience getaways in new and exciting ways. One such exciting new trend goes by the name “Glamping”. Glamping, a portmanteau (a word blending the sounds and combining the meanings of two...

Guided Bush Trails

Experience and enjoy the Garden Route’s abundant fauna and flora on foot. Follow a Botlierskop field ranger as he tracks for 2 ½ hours through diverse habitats such as coastal renosterveldt and Cape fynbos. Chance to see wild animals while exploring the wonders of insects,...

Horse Sense At Botlierskop

Taking something of great beauty and passion and developing it into a practical, useful entity has always been present in the vision and all forms of planning at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. But how do you combine emotion and passion with practicality and usefulness? The...

Why not pack a picnic (provided by Botlierskop) and head down to the Moordkuil River Dam and enjoy a paddle up the 1 km Moodkuil river, passing the tented suites. Enjoy views of the mountains while spotting some bird life and if you’re lucky, animals...

Place of Miracles

Dedicated to environmentally conscious hospitality, sustainable conservation and the empowerment of local communities since 1993..

Singita's luxury safari lodges provide restorative sanctuaries and encounters in the bush that guests won’t find anywhere else. Sought-after locations, intuitive attention to detail and the utmost privacy underpin every stay. 

Find solitude in untouched natural surrounds

Our lodges offer guests the freedom to feel their senses awaken on safaris that enrapt and revive..

Awe-inspiring landscapes form the perfect backdrop for the stillness and privacy they seek with endless opportunities to truly slow down.

Singita, the Shangaan word for 'Place of Miracles’.

With limited guest and vehicle numbers, exceptionally consistent game viewing and warm-hearted hospitality, guests leave feeling transformed – with body and soul soothed by meaningful connections with loved ones, themselves and nature.

The start of a legacy

The singita story began in 1925 on a piece of land in sabi sand, owned by the bailes family..

It was the start of a legacy that unfolded over decades – and a brand entrenched in the same innovative spirit and family values. Singita is now a conservation and ecotourism brand offering guests exceptional safari experiences at 16 luxury, award-winning lodges and camps across four countries.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

A soul-restoring Singita experience. Find your sanctuary

Featuring unfiltered space & time, Singita’s award-winning luxury African wildlife safari lodges and camps offer remote locations, complete privacy and intuitive service at every turn. Each unique setting allows guests to truly connect with nature, and experience Africa’s most pristine wildlife & wilderness up close.

Singita Private Villa Collection

Sabi Sand, South Africa

Ebony Lodge

Ebony villa.

Boulders Lodge

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Lebombo Lodge

Lebombo Villa

Sweni Lodge

Malilangwe, Zimbabwe

Pamushana Lodge

Malilangwe House

Grumeti, Tanzania

Sasakwa Lodge

Faru Faru Lodge

Sabora Tented Camp

Serengeti House

Lamai, Tanzania

Mara River Tented Camp

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Kwitonda Lodge

Kataza House

Let us plan your trip, our expert in-house travel service embodies the singita experience every step of the way..

Contact Us Discover more

“To preserve and protect large areas of African wilderness for future generations”

Stay up to date, conservation, destinations, e. [email protected], t. +27 (0) 21 683 3424.

One&Only Cape Town

Enter your dates to check availability at:

Great news, there is availability!

Enter your details below and a travel advisor will get in touch

An urban chic resort setting a whole new standard for South Africa hotels One&Only Cape Town offers an unprecedented level of luxury and style to one of the world's most fascinating cities, One&Only Cape Town will enchant your senses and renew your sense of self.

• Situated in Cape Town serving as a gateway to Robben Island and much more.
• Room offering magnificent views and private balconies. Complimentary KindsOnly Club facilities and full full concierge service.
• A variety of activities in and around Cape Town.

One&Only Cape Town creates a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. The world-famous restaurants and beautiful bar and the extraordinary spa facilities, creates an inviting environment for you to experience One&Only Cape Town, its warmth, hospitality and generosity as she was designed to be enjoyed. Central to exciting nightlife and entertainment, One&Only Cape Town serves as a gateway to the unique adventures of South Africa such as tours to Robben Island, wildlife safaris, wine country excursions and more.

Generous interior spaces in One&Only Cape Town's accommodations are adorned with fabrics and furnishings recalling the warm, muted tones of Africa's savannahs, with bright splashes of color paying tribute to the land's vibrant personality. Sumptuously appointed oversized baths are complete with roomy rain shower, private water closet and dual marble vanity.

One&Only Cape Town offers wheelchair-friendly rooms in the Marina Rise building conveniently located on the first floor with nearby lift access.

The One Penthouse is South Africa's most impressive Cape Town accommodation, with wraparound views of Cape Town and breathtaking vistas of two World Heritage sites - Table Mountain National Park and Robben Island. Guests can enjoy the world-class facilities offered by One&Only Cape Town; including the spa, pool, various bars, world-famous Nobu Restaurant and the new contemporary Ochre Restaurant. A private lift allows for discreet entrance to The One, while a 24-hour butler service caters for your every need. Vastly impressive without being intimidating, The One is the exclusive residence of choice for individuals that value location and luxury above all else.

Visit South Africa and explore the rare adventures that await you. From the wildlife safaris, wine country excursions and endless water play along the pristine beaches, One&Only Cape Town is central to all the exciting entertainment and nightlife in South Africa.

Dining at One&Only Cape Town is a pure delight with two of the city's most acclaimed restaurants. Legendary Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa brings his culinary wizardry to Nobu which is his first-ever restaurant in Africa, whilst Ochre Restaurant is run by Executive Chef Chris Mare who puts his own twist on age-old South African dishes.

Room facilities include, a Nespresso machine, A selection of teas and Nespresso coffees, Multi-media entertainment system, 42-inch flat-screen television,  Satellite TV with DVD/CD player, iPod docking station, In-room business services (multi-adaptor, fax/computer hook-ups, three phone/two-line communication system), Hairdryer and bathrobes and Personal in-room safe For family stays the following facilities are available, complimentary use of KidsOnly Club facilities, daily programme of supervised activities for 4-11 year olds, Nintendo Wii, PS3, Xbox and a selection of board games, garden play area, arts and crafts, family-friendly dining venues at Reuben’s and Isola, babysitting facilities (on request at an additional charge), baby convenience items and toiletries available upon request, complimentary use of: Baby cot, high chair, bottle warmer, steriliser and microwave

One&Only Cape Town offers unforgettable venues for high-end business meetings and events, charity and gala dinners, weddings and creative themed evenings.

Dining options include a variety of a la carte selections from the resort's main kitchen, and set menus are also available for clients preferring a working lunch event. All events, including weddings, are catered to with stylish flair and exceptional detail. Halal and Kosher friendly meals are available on request.

Price includes

Accommodation and breakfast daily in Reuben’s (breakfast charge is non-refundable). Additional charges apply for breakfast consumed in the room. An additional cost per person per day will apply for a child 18 yrs of age or an adult sharing.

Rates & Pricing

Packages that include this lodge.

Location and getting there

Let's start planning

Every detail, we're available 24/7

Meet your travel advisor

What our guests say about Candis

April 26, 2024

Great planning and service

Great planning and service, and everything worked like clockwork. We booked an Inyari Lodge safari with air with Safari.com. it wasn't clear if there will be 2 or three of us, so with Candis' help we booked a family chalet for 2 and added the third later when it was confirmed he can come. Candis put us on flights that maximized our game drive time (unlike some of the other guests) so we got all 6 drives in 3 nights. The lodge was great. Especially the game drives. We saw more than we hoped for. Additionally, Safari.com's insurance was very competitive. Highly recommended.

March 26, 2024

This is the second trip we book with…

This is the second trip we book with Candis from safari.com. Candis is super knowledgable, is extremly customer service and experience focused and did everything possible to organize the trip as we wanted it. I can highly recommend booking a safari with Candis and safari.com

March 21, 2024

Booking with Candis was seamless

Booking with Candis was seamless. Thank you very much

Apr 28, 2024

Great service

Great service. The staff are so helpful and accomadating. I would highly recommend them.

Shann was great

Shann was great. Answered all questions promptly and setup the trip to Kruger last minute for us with ease.

Shann was amazing

Shann was amazing. Really knowledgeable and helpful. Nothing too much trouble.

Apr 27, 2024

Anja is awesome!

Anja is awesome!! She went above and beyond for me as I had several changes until I locked in my bucket list itinerary and then my friend cancelled. She wasn't mad and just went about cancelling her portion which saved me money in the long run. Anja is a true professional regardless and I have been dealing with her since Sept 2023. Cannot wait until my trip in Sept 2024.

Apr 26, 2024

Shann was beyond amazing

Shann was beyond amazing. Listened to our needs, communicated super-efficiently and gave really honest excellent advice. She was so patient, kind and professional. The time difference across the globe made no difference. I am so excited for the itinerary she has put together. I usually cobble my own itinerary together for our holidays and it’s so time consuming and hard work. This was a piece of cake! Thank you Shann.

Apr 24, 2024

Kim helped us for the details of trip…

Kim helped us for the details of trip planning.

Apr 23, 2024

Shann was amazing , great prompt service and went above and beyond to meet our travel requirements.

Apr 22, 2024

My experience with safari.com is always…

My experience with safari.com is always incredibly, pascal made happen my dream again. He is the best always answering questions and making everything perfect.thank you again pascal, can’t wait to tell all about my second trip to Africa in October.

• Accommodation / Bush Lodges
• Bush Lodge Special Deals & Promotions ACCOMMODATION SPECIALS
• Half and Full Day Tours TOURS & BIG 5 SAFARIS IN THE CAPE TOWN
• Getting There CAR HIRE
• Explore the Big 5 BIG 5 GAME VIEWING IN THE WESTERN CAPE

CAPE TOWN SAFARIS

Safari Lodges, Hotels & Resorts

• Kruger National Park
• Madikwe Game Reserve
• Mabula Game Reserve
• Pilanesberg Game Reserve
• Timbavati Game Reserve
• Welgevonden Game Reserve

• Signature journeys ›
• Luxury Camps ›
• Family safaris ›
• Private Villas ›
• Experiences ›

The Silo Cape Town

28 luxury suites at The Silo are each individually designed. The modern architecture features an ingenious design with special pillowed window bays framing wraparound views of Cape Town. The two Royal Suites overlook the Atlantic ocean, Robben Island and distant mountains, while the one-bedroom penthouse suite is located on the topmost floor of The Silo with an expansive balcony deck facing Table Mountain.

In the 1920s, the Grain Silo was the tallest building in Africa. Today, The Silo possesses one of Cape Town’s most enviable views - designed by the award-winning Thomas Heatherwick Studio.

Cape of Good Hope

Try out the Signature Guided Safaris® privately hosted experience with our top-end private guides in Cape Town. Featuring the Guided Safaris® fleet of luxury vehicles to suit your needs, along with the services of professional, high-service chauffeurs and Private Guides - some of the best in the country with hands-on local knowledge of heritage sites and specialized expertise.

Special activities by Guided Safaris® include Private Helicopter excursions, Sailing around the Cape, Golf, Wine tasting. Ask about custom fly-in packages to our private game reserves.

• Scenic drive to Cape of Good Hope
• See the Penguins of Boulders Beach
• Guided cable car to Table Mountain
• Personalized visit to Robben Island
• Drive through Chapman’s Peak
• Exclusive access to Zeitz MoCAA
• Private tasting at award-winning wineries

The most dramatic Gorilla trek in Africa

Only 6 luxury suites

Authentic Rwandan experience

An unforgettable adventure

111111Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

What’s a Rich Text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

Static and dynamic content editing

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

How to customize formatting for each rich text

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

33333Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

44444Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

Plan your safari

An extraordinary wilderness journey featuring our finest private game reserves in Botswana.

There’s no journey quite like it; Witness the Great Migration on this private safari to Kenya

Embark on a tailormade Guided Safaris® Signature trip seeking Big Cats, Elephants - & the Gorillas!

• Private Masai Mara ›
• Private Botswana safari ›
• Victoria Falls safari ›
• Browse all Private Villas ›
• Private Great Migration ›
• Private Gorilla safari ›
• Luxury Tree Camps ›
• Private Island villas ›
• Luxury Cape Town penthouses ›
• Luxury Yachts ›
• Victoria Falls ›
• Private Great Migration safari ›
• Big Cats & Gorillas safari ›
• Luxury Botswana safari ›
• Private Jet safari ›
• Private Helicopter safari ›
• Mara Plains Camp ›
• Bisate Lodge ›
• Mombo Camp ›
• Zarafa Camp ›
• Duba Plains Camp ›
• Great Migration family safari ›
• Private Mara & Gorilla safari ›
• Private Southern Africa ›
• Balloon safari ›
• Private helicopter safari ›
• Birding in Africa ›
• Hot Air balloon safaris ›
• Private Helicopter safaris ›
• Desert adventures ›

Lodges in Cape Town

Find the lodges that appeal to you the most, the 10 best lodges in cape town, south africa, check out our pick of great lodges in cape town, review score.

See the latest prices and deals by choosing your dates. Choose dates

Oakvale Lodge 4 stars

Rondebosch, Cape Town

Set in Cape Town, 7 km from Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and 10 km from CTICC, Oakvale Lodge offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning and access to a garden with an outdoor swimming pool.

Stunning suite in a stunning property, beautiful pool and garden, friendly hosts and amazing breakfasts. Room is well equipped and stylish. So many thoughful little touches meant I didn't need anything, and nothing was too much trouble. Friendly canine welcoming committee :)

Ocean Lounge

Camps Bay, Cape Town

Situated in Cape Town, Ocean Lounge offers accommodation with a terrace or a patio, free WiFi and flat-screen TV, as well as an outdoor swimming pool and a garden. A continental breakfast is available each morning at the lodge .

A beautiful property in a great location with a fantastic pool area and facilities throughout. The breakfast was freshly prepared and delicious. Patricia, the host, could not have been more friendly and accommodating throughout the booking process and the stay itself - communicative, flexible and easy going. Thank you

Ikhaya Safari Lodge 4 stars

Constantia, Cape Town

Set in Constantia Valley, Ikhaya Safari Lodge offers a heated pool and tennis court. The lodge boasts a dining room with a fireplace and well-stocked wine cellar. Ikhaya Safari Lodge is 5 minutes’ drive from Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Hout Bay is less than 8 km away.

Wonderful stay here. Had a family-vibe. The breakfast was delicious and I loved the freedom to use the coffee machine at any time. The staff were lovely. Amazing views.

Blackheath Lodge by The Oyster Collection 4 stars

Sea Point, Cape Town

This is a 2-floor Victorian guest house below Signal Hill, close to the city, Waterfront and well-known beaches. Built back in the 1880s with spacious interiors, high ceilings and wooden floors, this guest house was recently renovated with unique African style and charm. Our aim is to offer you stylish rooms, excellent personalised service and warm hospitality.

the staff are very friendly and the services was nice

Constantia Valley Lodge 4 stars

Located in the centre of Upper Constantia, this 4-star guest house features a lounge with a large fireplace and a sub-tropical garden with a large swimming pool. Constantia Valley Lodge offers spacious rooms and free 100 meg fibre internet. The lodge has back up for load shedding with inverters and batteries.

Absolutely beautiful pool, gardens and rooms!

Savoy Lodge 3 stars

Rondebosch East, Cape Town

The Savoy Lodge is a 10-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport and the V&A Waterfront. There is an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi access throughout. Guestrooms of the Savoy Lodge include satellite TVs, air conditioning and patios. Each room has a private bathroom with bath or shower.

the stuff very kind and helpful. check in 24 hours. great breakfast free secure parking

iKhaya Lodge 3 stars

City Bowl, Cape Town

iKhaya Lodge is located in central Cape Town, a 10-minute drive away from the V&A Waterfront and Robben Island Ferry. It offers views of Table Mountain and Lion's Head. iKhaya Lodge is located in the historic Dunkley Square, flanked on 3 sides by attractive Heritage buildings. It is within a few minutes’ walk of many cafes, restaurants, museums and art galleries.

Unique in its decor. A feeling of Home from home. Everyone was extremely approachable, friendly and helpful. They worked like a family unit. Definitely will go back

Scarborough Nature Lodge

Situated in Cape Town in the Western Cape region and Scarborough Beach reachable within 600 metres, Scarborough Nature Lodge features accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, a garden and free private parking.

We stayed in Treetops and it was like staying in a treehouse! we absolutely loved it and had so much fun. the owner, Janis, said it was like “glamping” however the rooms are indoors so did not feel like camping at all. the owner and her husband were amazing and very welcoming and we had a nice cuddle with their dog, Storm. We will definitely be back as soon as possible!

Carmel Huys

Milnerton, Cape Town

Situated in Cape Town in the Western Cape region, with Sunset Beach nearby, Carmel Huys features accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking. CTICC is 13 km from the lodge , while Robben Island Ferry is 14 km from the property. The nearest airport is Cape Town International Airport, 19 km from Carmel Huys.

The location and the facilities

Sunrise Lodge

Set in Cape Town in the Western Cape region, Sunrise Lodge offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking. CTICC is 23 km from the lodge , while Robben Island Ferry is 24 km away. The nearest airport is Cape Town International Airport, 9 km from Sunrise Lodge .

The rooms so clean and spacious

Looking for a lodge?

Most booked lodges in cape town this month.

Pixie Lodge

Popular with guests booking lodges in Cape Town

Oria Guest House

iKhaya Lodge

Blackheath Lodge by The Oyster Collection

Ikhaya Safari Lodge

Lighthouse Farm Backpackers Lodge

Savoy Lodge

Enjoy breakfast in cape town.

Oakvale Lodge

Set in Cape Town, 7 km from Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and 10 km from CTICC, Oakvale Lodge offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning and access to a garden with an outdoor...

everything !!!!! lovely people and awesome company 🥰

This is a 2-floor Victorian guest house below Signal Hill, close to the city, Waterfront and well-known beaches.

fabulous breakfasts, great location, helpful staff

The Savoy Lodge is a 10-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport and the V&A Waterfront. There is an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi access throughout.

Was satisfied with the place and convinient to lot of of places

Set in Milnerton, Oria Guest House offers accommodation with contemporary African decor within 7 km of Cape Town's city centre. The property offers free WiFi and free private parking on site.

Great service, very friendly stuff. Keep it up guys

Situated in Cape Town, Ocean Lounge offers accommodation with a terrace or a patio, free WiFi and flat-screen TV, as well as an outdoor swimming pool and a garden.

Wonderful outside space with gardens hot tub and pool

Constantia Valley Lodge

Located in the centre of Upper Constantia, this 4-star guest house features a lounge with a large fireplace and a sub-tropical garden with a large swimming pool.

The breakfast was fresh and yummy.The location is great.

iKhaya Lodge is located in central Cape Town, a 10-minute drive away from the V&A Waterfront and Robben Island Ferry. It offers views of Table Mountain and Lion's Head.

Super location and safe car park. The staff are amazing’ Breakfast was great !

Situated in Cape Town in the Western Cape region and Scarborough Beach reachable within 600 metres, Scarborough Nature Lodge features accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, a garden and free...

View of the beach Homely and comfortable apartment

Great access to the city centre! Check these lodges in Cape Town

Set in Constantia Valley, Ikhaya Safari Lodge offers a heated pool and tennis court. The lodge boasts a dining room with a fireplace and well-stocked wine cellar.

perfect location, nice atmosphere, formidable host

Situated in Cape Town in the Western Cape region, with Sunset Beach nearby, Carmel Huys features accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking.

Super Lage, sehr nettes Personal, viel Platz und geräumig.

Located in Cape Town in the Western Cape region and CTICC reachable within 14 km, Oria Lodge provides accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, an outdoor swimming pool and free private parking.

It’s So Nice It Feels Like You Are in a 5 star Hotel.

Located in Cape Town in the Western Cape region and CTICC reachable within 8.9 km, Lighthouse Farm Backpackers Lodge provides accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, a garden and free private...

c’est tout simple, mais qu’est ce que c’est cool !

ALEXIA LODGE & SPA

Set in Cape Town in the Western Cape region, ALEXIA LODGE & SPA offers accommodation with free private parking. CTICC is 17 km from the lodge, while Robben Island Ferry is 18 km from the property.

BOTHA VILLA LODGE

Located in Cape Town in the Western Cape region and CTICC reachable within 17 km, BOTHA VILLA LODGE provides accommodation with free WiFi, a children's playground, a garden and free private parking.

Set in Cape Town in the Western Cape region, Sunrise Lodge offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking.

I must add the lady that helped us was soo warming really made my partner feel at home

Pixie Lodge is situated in Cape Town, 1.1 km from Milnerton Beach and features air-conditioned accommodation with free WiFi, as well as access to a terrace.

Everything was in order besides the WiFi challenge

FAQ about lodges in Cape Town

How much does it cost to stay in a lodge in cape town, how much is a lodge in cape town for this weekend, how much would a lodge in cape town cost for tonight, which lodges in cape town are good for families, what are some of the best lodges for stays in cape town, which lodges in cape town offer an especially good breakfast, which lodges in cape town are good for couples, what lodges in cape town have nice views, lodges that guests love in cape town.

LOLOHO LODGE - 24h power

Cape Diem Lodge

Beulah Lodge

Ashanti Lodge Backpackers

Pinoak Self Catering Cottages - Constantia

Signal Hill Lodge

Magnolia Cottage

Research, refine and make plans for your whole trip

List your property

• Mobile version
• Your account
• Make changes to your booking online
• Customer Service help
• Booking.com for Business
• Places of interest
• Guest Houses
• Unique places to stay
• Discover monthly stays
• Unpacked: Travel articles
• Seasonal and holiday deals
• Traveller Review Awards
• Flight finder
• Restaurant reservations
• Booking.com for Travel Agents
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQs
• About Booking.com
• Partner help
• Sustainability
• Press centre
• Safety resource centre
• Investor relations
• Terms & Conditions
• Partner dispute
• How we work
• Privacy & Cookie Statement
• Cookie Settings Manage cookie settings
• MSA Statement
• Corporate contact
• Content guidelines and reporting

Booking.com is part of Booking Holdings Inc., the world leader in online travel and related services.

Verified reviews from real guests.

We have more than 70 million property reviews, and they're all from real, verified guests .

How does it work?

It starts with a booking.

The only way to leave a review is to first make a booking. That's how we know our reviews come from real guests who have stayed at the property.

Followed by a trip

When guests stay at the property they check out how quiet the room is, how friendly the staff are and more.

And finally, a review

After their trip, guests tell us about their stay. We check for naughty words and verify the authenticity of all guest reviews before adding them to our site.

If you booked through us and want to leave a review, please sign in first.

Check-in date

Check-out date

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Very friendly and perfectly organised! - African Safari Group

• Africa    
• South Africa    
• Western Cape    
• Cape Town    
• Cape Town - Things to Do    
• African Safari Group

Incredible stay in Sabi Sabi Bush lodge, a truly once in a lifetime experience - The safari was... read more

Best safari experience ever. The lion sand game lodge was top class and the staff made our stay... read more

Very friendly and perfectly organised!

Everything was organised perfectly by Stewart and his team. Would definitely book again with African Safari Group! Thank you for a great experience!

Incredible stay in Sabi Sabi Bush lodge, a truly once in a lifetime experience - The safari was incredible. Our trip was organised by Lorensha who really went the extra mile to ensure our trip (and proposal) was as special as it could be - Could not recommend Lorensha and African Safari Group enough!

Best safari experience ever. The lion sand game lodge was top class and the staff made our stay there very unique. Our guide and tracker were just amazing, enjoying the experience, and transmitting passion. Game viewing could not have been better ( all big 5 plus wild dogs and cheetah). Our stay in Cape Town was really amazing as well and we were mind blowed by the city and the cape. Estelle, and the whole African safari team made the whole trip a once in a life experience.

Rudi from African Safari Group was so helpful when we were planning our safari holiday in Sabi Sands . He guided us through the whole process and helped us with flights and transfers . We stayed at the beautiful Arathusa Lodge . We had a wonderful 4 nights there and it lived up to our expectations . Thank you Rudi ! Audrey & John

We got in touch with Anthony ~3 days before we wanted to go on safari. Despite the very short timeframe, he was able to give us two options of safari lodges, that met our criteria. We pursued with Makanyi lodge, which was exceptional and truly exceeded our expectations - we will definitely be back! Anthony sorted everything out for us from A-Z, in a very quick manner and it was a pleasure interacting with him. He made our experience smooth, easy and he was highly professional and patient. There is no doubt that we'll be booking with him in the future when we come back to South Africa!

Wonderful experience at Utukhula House. The property is located in an exceptional setting in Mjejane, one of Kruger's private game reserves, facing the river, and the decoration of the house is at the same level. The service was world-class, at all times. All of this came hand in hand with Anthony Saccone, who led us to this magnificent experience.

• Honeymoon Suite
• Garden View Suites
• Double Rooms with Terrace
• Double / Twin with Balcony
• Double / Twin Room
• Self-Catering Cottage
• Useful Details

iKhaya Safari Lodge

Exclusive Guest House located along the Constantia Wine Route in Cape Town, South Africa. Close to the city centre, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Golf courses, Beaches, Mountain walks, Shopping centres and restaurants !

iKhaya is the Zulu and Xhosa word for “My Home”

Unique to Cape Town, Ikhaya Safari Lodge is your perfect getaway indulging guests with every conceivable luxury. Decorated in true African Safari Lodge style with African antelope heads adorning the walls as well as skins scattered on the wooden floors.

The lounge boasts a magnificent fireplace and a wine cellar, adjacent to the main dining room in open thatch.

Accommodation consists of 8 rooms with ensuite bathrooms, each of these elegantly appointed rooms feature tea trays with complementary tea and coffee. Also available is a beautiful 1 bedroom cottage under thatch with an open plan lounge and kitchenette as well as its own private terrace.

This charming stone and thatch home built on 2 acres of beautiful lush gardens with a tennis court and a swimming pool, offers the most breath-taking views of the winelands and the Hottentots Holland mountains, which can be enjoyed from the main terrace.

Located in Cape Town, South Africa

About the manageress.

Guests who frequent bed and breakfasts usually seek the enjoyment of getting to know their host and sometimes develop close friendships. Käthe Phillips, the manageress provides a warm and friendly welcome which has made Ikhaya the success it is since her arrival. Her great sense for detail and her knowledge of the Western Cape makes her the perfect hostess. When it comes to restaurant recommendations, she will give you the best addresses in town!

Käthe is a qualified chef trained at Leiths, an award-winning UK cookery school in London, which enables her to offer guests a superb breakfast during their stay.

Käthe and her team look forward to welcoming you very soon at Ikhaya Safari Lodge!

Tswalu, South Africa: the ultimate destination for a luxury safari

Share this article

Motse accommodation at Tswalu private reserve in South Africa. Photo / Supplied

At Tswalu in South Africa , diamond tycoon Jonathan Oppenheimer has created the kind of luxury safari that most of us can only dream about, writes Catherine McGregor

It was when the mountains caught fire that we started to worry. A summer storm had rolled in over the Korannaberg ranges and lightning was slashing through the vast desert skies, setting the hillside alight before quickly being extinguished by the torrential rain. On the verandah, the clink of ice in our pre-dinner cocktails was being drowned out by the roar of thunder. It was time to go inside.

The summer rains bring life to the Kalahari Desert, the arid sandy savanna that straddles the border of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. At Tswalu Kalahari reserve in South Africa the rain can transform the parched land literally overnight. The landscape, once barren, is suddenly carpeted by thick tufted grass, spiky gemsbok cucumbers and tiny yellow dubbeltjie (little devil) flowers. For visitors, the odd lightning strike is a small price to pay for such abundance.

READ MORE: The luxury safari that’s better than winning Lotto

Located on the southern edge of the Kalahari, not far from the Botswana border, Tswalu is a truly unique safari experience. The property has been owned since 1999 by the billionaire Oppenheimer family, who once controlled the majority of South Africa’s diamond industry through their controlling stake in De Beers and now use their immense wealth to support their conservation and philanthropic efforts. Tswalu is not only South Africa’s largest private wildlife reserve, but arguably its most remote, at around 10 hours’ drive from either Cape Town or Johannesburg. Isolated and ultra exclusive, Tswalu just might be the ultimate destination safari.

The distance by road doesn’t bother most guests, since hardly any of them drive. Tswalu has its own private airport and offers a direct charter air service from both Johannesburg or Cape Town. For Tswalu’s mega wealthy clientele, flying in is a no-brainer. That airstrip is a game-changer, says Nigel Pace, Tswalu’s head of hospitality. “Yes, we’re really remote – but in terms of access, we’re actually easier to get to than places like Kruger or Sabi Sands.”

After touchdown, guests are collected by their drivers and depart for one of three luxury camps dotted across the vast reserve. Motse, Tswalu’s original camp, features nine guest suites, or legae (“home” in the local Setswana language) and has the feel of a relaxed-chic boutique hotel. The recently opened Loapi is a collection of six extraordinarily beautiful tented camps , each with a dedicated homathi (house manager) and chef. All six Loapi residences are located at least 100m from each other, with no communal or shared guest areas or services, allowing for an incredibly private stay.

My stay was at Tarkuni, an exclusive-use homestead designed for multi-generational families or parties of friends. Tarkuni accommodates up to 10 guests in five suites, each with their own private verandah, arranged around a living area featuring a spectacular double-height fireplace. Upstairs is a spa treatment suite and games room; out the front is a swimming pool and waterhole where baboons and antelope regularly come to drink.

With a total maximum of 40 guests in an area almost twice the size of urban Auckland , it’s hardly surprising that the word “private” comes up so much at Tswalu. If you’re staying at Loapi and Tarkuni, you can quite easily avoid ever seeing another soul, save for your own small team of staff. On top of that, every booking guarantees you a private 4×4 safari vehicle, including a dedicated guide and tracker, for the duration of your stay. More than anything, it’s this that puts Tswalu a cut above most other luxury safari experiences.

Having your own vehicle doesn’t only give you privacy – it makes each game drive a totally personalised experience. Want to focus on tracking lesser-known sub-species like the desert black rhino? No problem. Want to stay out all day? Can do. Tswalu’s guides and trackers know the reserve like the back of their hands, and are trained to create for you the most memorable safari experience possible. As your stay continues, your priorities can change, and the value of a private vehicle only increases. With your own vehicle, you’ll never find yourself stuck with day-one newbies who need the safari basics explained or want to stop to photograph every passing kudu – although if that’s something you still want to do, that’s absolutely okay too.

A Tswalu safari is as unique as the land itself. The aridity of the Kalahari means you won’t see any elephants or hippos here, and the sheer size of the reserve can sometimes make spotting animals a challenge. Don’t arrive expecting a Kruger-style wildlife buffet, but that doesn’t mean you won’t see plenty of amazing sights, like a lioness and her cubs contentedly chowing down on a zebra carcass at the edge of a water hole. For 10 minutes we sat quietly in our vehicle, snapping photos from just a few metres away, as the desert sun slowly set behind the horizon.

While it isn’t the place to spot the Big 5 around every corner, Tswalu boasts a remarkable number of species that are rarely seen elsewhere. Along with more common species like oryx, wildebeest, cheetah, buffalo, zebra and giraffe, the reserve is a wonderful place to see rare and endangered species including the Kalahari black-maned lion, desert black rhino and African wild dog. Tswalu offers a lucky few the chance to see the Temmick’s pangolin, one of the world’s most elusive mammals; if you get the chance to accompany the resident pangolin scientists on a nocturnal research outing, grab it.

Tswalu is also home to multiple colonies of meerkats, who have become used to human visitors through a painstaking habituating process. These charmingly gregarious creatures are best spotted in the early morning as they leave their burrows for the day, or at dusk, when they return. Like all wild creatures, however, no viewing is ever guaranteed. Despite the best efforts of Tswalu’s tracking team, we sadly didn’t see any meerkats on our visit. It’s a tribute to the power of the Kalahari landscape that our sunrise walk to the burrows, and the Jeep-side breakfast afterwards – magicked seemingly out of thin air by our guide – remains one of my favourite memories of our stay.

Along with preserving wildlife, making memories is what Tswalu is all about. On our drive back to the homestead, our guide told us that bush dining is one of the experiences guests request most often – whether that means a fully hosted braai with butler service and a mobile kitchen for a group, or a secluded gourmet picnic for two (with a staff vehicle positioned nearby, just in case). Other once-in-a-lifetime experiences include a night under the stars in one of Tswalu’s “star beds”, private camps whose level of luxury puts most other glamp-outs to shame.

There’s one special Tswalu experience that towers above all others, and that’s dinner at Klein Jan, the incredible on-site restaurant founded by Michelin-starred South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. It’s the sort of dining experience that relies in part on the element of surprise – so if eating here is on your bucket list, look away now. The magic begins when you pull up outside what appeared to be a ramshackle farmhouse in the middle of nowhere. This is actually the Klein Jan entrance building, where we sat on the stoep, or verandah, and drank cocktails as the thunderstorm rolled in.

We were guided through the farmhouse and into a door on the side of what looked like a disused water tank. Suddenly we were descending a staircase wrapped around a waterfall, then led through more jewel-box spaces and into a spectacular glass-walled dining room. While Klein Jan is open to non-guests for lunch – people fly in and out just to spend a few hours eating here – dinner is for Tswalu guests only, and is included with every two-night stay. The tasting menu at Klein Jan is a journey through both South African culinary history and the natural world of the Kalahari, utilising such unfamiliar ingredients (at least to me) as fever berry, xigugu (a traditional corn and peanut paste), kaiings (crackling) and boerbok (South African goat). As we ate, lightning carved through the sky, the landscape fleetingly illuminated before being plunged back into the inky black darkness of a desert night.

The next morning dawned clear and bright, the previous evening’s torrential rain already absorbed by the thirsty red sand. For our last experience, we were going horse riding – a prospect that initially had me slightly anxious, but which, I was assured, was perfectly safe in this part of the reserve. After the exhilaration of the previous few days, a quiet hour on horseback was the ideal end to our stay. With no engine noise or whirr of camera shutters, we could hear the Kalahari’s birds bursting into song in celebration of the rain. Above, the desert sky was enormous and blue; around us, the ochre sand was stippled with summer green. At our dismounting site, the riding guides removed our horses’ saddles and bridles. As we climbed into our Jeep for the last time, the horses set off at a gallop, back across the savannah and towards home.

For more things to see and do in South Africa, see southafrica.net

Latest from Travel

Michelin Guide reveals first Key Hotels under new rating system

124 exclusive hotels across the US made the list for their character and unique offerings.

Barcelona's crafty but very clever way to curb mass tourism

Flight attendant lifts the lid on passengers' gross toilet habit

France's best chateaux stays from as little as $160

‘Dark delights’ of Great Barrier Island

Animals Around The Globe (US)

A South African Safari Must – Crossing Lodges in the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

Africa, filled with beautiful landscapes, incredible wildlife, and diverse cultures is loved by international travelers around the world. Especially by those who have a love for wildlife and want to see these animals thrive in their natural habitats. This makes Africa, and especially South Africa, a great choice for a safari holiday!

African Safari's

A Safari holiday is a popular (and safe) way to see the incredible power and beauty of wild animals thriving in their natural habitat. Whether it is your dream to see the Big 5 up close, or just to absorb the magnificence of nature, a safari is a way to do it! These holidays often bring a renewed sense of respect and awe for wildlife and nature to those who experience these adventures. 

What Makes Travel In South Africa So Special?

South Africa is not just a culturally diverse country, but destination wise as well! When travelling to South Africa you can find yourself on the beach in Cape Town one day and surrounded by wildlife in the Kruger National Park the next. It comes as no surprise that this country rich with experiences, had over 8.5 million tourists visiting in 2023. 

Diverse Wildlife

But the Kruger National Park is not the only place you can admire wildlife like the Big 5, in luxury, in South Africa. In the Welgevonden Game Reserve lies Elephants Crossing Lodge. Where you can see not only elephants but lions, impalas, rhinos, and many other incredible animals and wildlife ! I had a chat with Bas Mullink, one of the lodge's founders about what goes on there. 

The Reserve

Welgevonden Game Reserve is situated in the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere in Limpopo, South Africa. Walking on the 38,000ha private game reserve is not only the Big 5 but over 485 other animal and wildlife species. Practically guaranteeing that you would encounter wildlife on your safari there – which is not always the case. As many parts of Africa suffer from poaching, climate change, and threats against biodiversity. 

Conservation

Welgevonden Game Reserve believes strongly that it is their responsibility to aid conservation, biodiversity, and the protection of the flora and fauna that thrive on their grounds. The Conservation Management team has continuous conservation research and development to ensure the biodiversity on the reserve. While the APU (Anti-Poaching Unit) is strong and willing to provide the animals with a safe space to roam and thrive. 

Elephants Crossing Lodge

As I mentioned earlier, Elephants Crossing Lodge lies on a hillside within the northern area of the stunning Welgevonden Game Reserve. This lodge not only offers luxurious tented accommodation but also game drives with amazing guides and even has a private watering hole – where they all but guarantee you will experience beautiful wildlife encounters! You might even catch a glimpse of the animals roaming around the unfenced lodge while sitting in your private splash pool. 

Zebras Crossing Lodge

Zebras Crossing Lodge is situated on open plains with a view of the Waterberg mountains. As this lodge doesn't focus on the Big 5, one could mountain bike, hike, or even swim in their private river among the passing zebras, giraffes, and many other animals. Perfect for adventurous animal lovers. 

Who Are They?

Two sisters and their husbands share a love for adventure and wildlife. This love brought them all the way from the Netherlands to the beautiful flora and fauna in South Africa, where they opened two lodges to share the country’s beauty with other wildlife admirers. While Elephants Crossing Lodge lies in the Welgevonden Reserve, and their other lodge, Zebras Crossing lies in a 650ha private reserve in the Waterberg bushveld near Modimolle, Limpopo. 

Their Contribution To Wildlife Conservation

Have a look at the Elephants Crossing and Zebras Crossing websites to see what other activities they offer. 

The lodges fully support all conservation efforts made by Welgevonden Game Reserve. For each guest payment, the lodge pays a percentage to aid the conservation efforts of the management team to protect and care for the biodiversity and wildlife on the Reserve. And if you ask me, creating a safe and beautiful place where people can admire wildlife in their natural habitat also contributes to the education and respect of animal conservation. Which is something they certainly do well!

So, A South African Safari Must?

The post A South African Safari Must – Crossing Lodges in the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere appeared first on Animals Around The Globe .

• The AMES Foundation and Their Fight Against Rhino Poaching
• Namibia & Its Animals Facing Another Drought

If you enjoyed this article on A South African Safari Must, you might enjoy these articles:

Interested in finding out more about travel and safari in Africa? Drop us an email at [email protected]

We love the idea that your stay at these lodges not only allows you to admire the stunning South African wildlife in their prime but also contributes to the conservation and care thereof! AATG and Crossing Lodges have partnered to bring our readers an exciting series of stories on some of the amazing wildlife encounters experienced at the lodges. So, keep your eyes peeled! 

More for You

Hagar the Horrible by Chris Browne

The biggest song in country music history, according to data. Plus, see if your favorite is in the top 100.

19 Things People Treat As Safe That Actually Are Pretty Dangerous

Unsellable Houses' Lyndsay Lamb Says Buyers Are Moving Away From This Color Trend

7 Things Stroke Doctors Say You Should Never, Ever Do

Scientists discover gigantic 'structure' under the surface of the Moon

For Better Or For Worse by Lynn Johnston

iPhone users in 92 countries received a recent stark warning

4 Things You Should Never Cook in Cast Iron

Buffalo Bills Signing WR With Troubling History

19 Things That Will Happen When You Stop Drinking Alcohol

Ranking the 21 'American Idol' winners

Red and Rover by Brian Basset

28 People Who Very Confidently Had No Clue Who Famous People Were

Putin's got egg on his face after showing off captured British armoured cars

Amateur rugby player who worked at Sainsbury’s drafted into NFL

The 'Dolomite Problem' Has Baffled Scientists for 2 Centuries—and Now They've Solved It

I’m a Bank Teller: 3 Times You Should Never Ask For $100 Bills at the Bank

6 Things A Doctor Wants You To Do Before Getting A Blood Test

10 clever ways to reuse coffee grounds